Friday, November 30, 2012

Early morning dental appointment
then stopped to browse in two stores
and saw nothing to add to what I have,
need nothing but sometimes uplifting
to add something new.
Really like my old old things better
and it may be my imagination
but - the quality seems so much better.
Also this matriarch has the advantage
of staying the same size for 50 years.

Lunch at Chili's as they were just opening
and it had been a long time since visiting them.
What I liked in the past is no longer on the menu,
the waiter said they would prepare what I wanted.
Nothing fancy just their grilled burger with no bun
and covered with chopped tomato's, onions, green peppers,
mushrooms and cheese. I asked if he would add some
chopped avocado. I found this tasty and if prepared
at home would have used fresh items.
He added a handful of sweet potato fries and their chips.
Have two thirds of this for evening meal.

Headed home and I spotted him standing at the intersection
selling the homeless newspaper. Long line, driving slowly,
and stopping at traffic light.
I watched as no one stopped.

Approaching, rolled down my window and placed the money in his hand
and the "God bless you" echoed in my ears all the way to
the local small town.

I truly think more cars in front of me should have rolled down
their window. This is a way for some income to be made by
those ~~that only by the grace of God we are not in their shoes~~
Now someone approaching you on the street I do not make
a practice of doing this - a time when this was done watched
as he approached other people
for the bus fare I had given him.

On to the grocery for the weekly needs of eggs, bread, milk,
ice cream and wanted some ginger tea. More on my to do list but was
weary and headed onward home to Miss Callie
who was waiting for me in the front field.

Have shared before that no one has ever greeted me with
such excitement and love. Its nice to be missed...

I am increasingly aware that a lot in this journal
is shared
over and over again.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Still cannot figure out why I have no birds at feeders.
Or rather some small birds are visiting
but not the large colorful ones of the past years.
I find such joy in seeing and recognizing these
special friends.
Camera is handy
and keep watching to see if a hawk is near by.

When computer is turned on early morning
there are so many emails that unsubscribe is clicked.
Seems I am on a lot of mailing list that I do not want to be on.

Pleased that even though the frost looks like snow in the early morning,
there is still cilantro, chives, dill, parsley, rosemary and sage
thriving
and can sprinkle on food at mealtime.

My daughter shared the names my youngest granddaughter told her
were people
that inspired her.
I thought one might be grandma,
not so:)

This is her list...

Albert Einstein
Abraham Lincoln
Amelia Earhart
and Jimmy Buffet

Oh my.....

The thought comes to mind so often
"what would I do without my computer and camera?"
I became acquainted with both of these
past the age of 70.
Wonder if any new surprises will surface?

Another day begins
and the warmth of the sun
expected
will seem like Spring
weather has returned.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

I am familiar with the plant Lavender,
the special scent in soaps and lotion
have always appealed to me.

Now using Lavender Oil and
finding it relaxing to use at bedtime.

Frankincense Oil is new to me.
Someone shared with me about this special oil
they used and where they ordered it from.
Her daughter has colon cancer and she massages
it on the instep of the foot which is suppose to correspond
with the colon. Also massages it on stomach over the colon area.

Did some research on this oil and seems to
help with healing and well being.

I ordered some and have been using for several weeks.
No miracles can I share with you
but seem to help me fall asleep peacefully.

Usually rotate the use of these oils.

If anyone is interested you can investigate about this oil online.

I hesitated about the Frankincense oil purchase as the cost was a more then
I wanted to spend. Then on second thought anything that helps me at
this time of life other then strong medications is worthwhile to me.
Always of the mindset that there is alternative healing available.

A small drop is used and I believe these oils will last about 6 months.

There are many places you can purchase these oils
but I believe "Young Living Essential Oils" are the best quality.

Nothing to base this on except research and if I am going to use these oils
I want them to be as pure as possible.

Monday, November 26, 2012

It seems to me that this 10 lb turkey
sure provided well for this years
Thanksgiving.

Dinner for family, a plate shared with
my professor neighbor.
She called complimenting the meal.
Stuffing she said because she is from the North.
Dressing I said because I am from the South.
Remarked it was the best she ever tasted.
So fussy am I - never like any one's
dressing but mine or my mother's.
Always cook cornbread a few days before
to be crumbled.

Meat removed
and soon will be making white bean chili.
Looked
in the pantry and a small can of chili's was
on hand

Two small bags in freezer. One for turkey salad,
one for another batch of soup and a container
in refrigerator for Callie to have some sprinkled
on her dry dog food.

Christmas is around the corner
and it seems this year has gone by so fast....

Saturday, November 24, 2012

My helper arrived the day before Thanksgiving
apologizing as he coughed.
He is sick...
Told him to go back home
replied he needed the money
told him I would pay him anyway.
He stayed a short time
and once again the leaves were blown
from around the cottage and fire pit area.

The old rocking chair with the finish worn
off of arms was brought downstairs.
from guest bedroom.
Put it in front of windows where the sun streams
in during the winter. I can sit, rock and dream.

The rocking chair 50 years old and all of
my babies were rocked in it until they were
to big to sit in my lap.

Old friend so pleased to have you near
kept thinking of this but did not want to
block the glass door and I have enjoyed
the open space.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Turkey is thawed,
pleased I still have Sage, Thyme and Rosemary
that is thriving in my garden.
This will tucked in crevices, under wings and inside
bird along with a little garlic
First will coat the bird with butter and could use
olive oil but will do butter.

Fortunate to find a smaller bird a few weeks ago.

The scent of these herbs while roasting is progressing
will be delightful.

The frost took my Basil
before I could harvest and put in freezer.

Still an abundance of turnip greens in small
garden that I need to pick and put in freezer.
Seems to me that the frost enhances their flavor.
Turnips are small, scrub well and do not peel.
I view them daily but have not put action
to my thoughts.

Table is set, deserts made and family to arrive in a few hours...

A Happy Thanksgiving to all who travel along with me
on this journey of life....

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

The bird feeders have been cleaned and fresh seed
put in them several times over the last month
and still I wonder "where are my beautiful friends."
I have many images captured over the last 2 years
here by the woods, but no new ones to post."

For many days now the afternoons are Spring like
and going into the 60's. Nights are cold and the
heating pad to ease aching shoulders feels wonderful.

Winter wheat is coming up in the field and always adds
bright green color in the winter months. Deer and wild turkeys are
venturing close by. Also hearing gun shots in the distance
and it sends a cold chill through me.

Trees have shed most of their leaves but a few stay connected.
The ground around cottage is covered with leaves even though
they have been blown into the woods several times.
With a slight breeze they blow right back to where they were.
Look at them with the thought they are like gold. A rich
addition to the earth in the woods and my garden.

My neighbor over the field, the professor from up North that is living in a
home I once built - piles her leaves and burns them. I look
out the window and see smoke, so aware of her practice
and hope that she does not set the woods on fire. Made this comment
to her and she replied "I'm careful." I sure hope so...

One month of prednisone and reduced dosage little by little the last two weeks.
Finally finished and for two weeks have really felt bad and now that is lifting. I think I suffered from withdrawal.
Feel better at the moment and hopefully it continues....

Two things that bother me at this time. The daily rubbish that accumulates, it is
put in bags and once a week taken to what they call the "convenience center." Where in the world does it come from for One Woman?
A thought comes to mind that everything is packaged in all kinds of containers.
Also when I return from the market seems like it is taking
me longer and longer to unload my vehicle. The cottage that was planned perfectly
but continually reminded this building site was not level. So there are steps I did not plan on.
It is lovely once inside, on deck or porch looking out over the fields and woods.
Extra careful I try to be - cannot fall. Have never broken a bone over the years and now
in these last years - just cannot.....

Thanksgiving day around the corner and there will be empty seats at the big table.
Accepting in my mind but then why do tears still fill these
dry eyes when it comes to mind. Family in Tampa will celebrate together, my granddaughter
and grandson with their mom and dad.
Granddaughter in New York for first time will not be at the cottage this year.

My special son in Thailand who was expected a few weeks ago when the storms
arrived is now coming home in the Spring.
It will be a lovely time with my gardens coming to life. He is so good
about taking me some places in the big city I have wanted to go. So nice to have
a driver that lets you off at the door. So through the cold winter months
something special to look forward too....

A favorite of my son's - sweet potato's with pecans and marshmallows on top will be an extra
dish at Thanksgiving.
My mother always served this and I have not - in years. Also my Beth requested
a pineapple upside down cake and that will be an addition to deserts.

Someone contacted me yesterday about not posting for a few days. The thought,
you know me well. When the stream of consciousness writing stops in this cottage, then
something is not quite right with the mistress of Woodhaven...

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Just finished reading Cate's poem
and the last paragraph
seemed to pierce my heart...

"Listening I hear the stream moving away from the gorge.
Rest now sister, it tells me in its hollow voice.
Rest you now,
for all things turn in time,
and we like the seasons, must wait on our time of turning."

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

I thought all the trees that might be a problem,
like falling on my cottage
had been trimmed or cut down.

I have been looking at this tree every since
building and 3 years has gone by so quickly.
Tree had a large section very close to this home.
and with winter arriving and possible ice on the
limbs or high winds a decision was made.
A sigh of relief it is done and pleased that just
a section of this tree was removed and not the
whole tree cut down.

Also the other evening noticed large sections of bark in my drive
and after some inspection noticed
the upper part of the tree that holds my Woodhaven sign
was dead. If the wind was strong
and anyone was walking in this area it could be dangerous.
So part of this tree came down also.

The tree men arrived at 7:00 yesterday morning.
They had to climb the tree, it was so high
and could not use the machine that had
a high boom on it.

They had spikes on their shoes that dug into the
bark of the tree and kind of scary watching them climb
so very high. They had already cut the large section
in many pieces and lowered them with a rope
when I decided to take an image of the man in the tree.
Should have picked up camera sooner, wanted my son to
see his mom's latest project - but never thought of it.

Even though they cleaned up before they left
there are still small limbs everywhere among my flower garden.

I love my home surrounded by nature - one of the reasons
for moving back home was to leave this area in its natural state.
I wanted less work, less grooming, less expense and I have been surprised
that so far it has not happened.
I believe it is safe as I can make it close to my home and need to be
aware of dead limbs on trees as I walk in the woods. The paths that have been made
make it easier to be aware of any high limbs on trees that are a danger.

Well aware a part of my personality is to continually groom
and hoping I am done for a while.

Monday, November 12, 2012

A cold rain has arrived
and all blowing of leaves and cleaning
gutters two days ago
should not have been done.
No evidence this early morning of all the hard work
and money wasted for a helper.
Work I can no longer do....
But he called and needed work so will look
at this like I helped someone.

Rarely turn the radio on
but early this rainy morning
I did.
Playing very loud a song I had
not heard in ages. I use to hear these words over 30 years ago
they went to my heart and I was determined but not smiling.
This morning when I heard them
I smiled and literally laughed out loud.

"I Will Survive"

Yes, I survived and if there is anyone out there who
questions they can.....
Hey - I am proof
it happens.

Life is a learning process
we fall down and get back up,
we learn and grow.
As I look back
my life has been good and
there is so much to be thankful for...

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Yesterday a perfect Fall day.
Sunny, slight breeze,
some trees are bare
and others have leaves still clinging.

Little girls were overjoyed to spend the morning with Aunt Beth.
They browsed Christmas decorations at special stores and enjoyed so many open house snacks
they did not have to eat lunch. Beth always buys them an advent calendar, they called and reminded
her they were waiting for this special outing. These are memories that will not be forgotten....

I am old fashion,
with the mindset - it is too early for this
as Thanksgiving has not even arrived....

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Oh my
early morning
I said no computer
but turned it on.
I began to read an article
that made me even more aware of this word.

Equanimity
when researching meaning of this word
I realize I have much to work on and
that I will never arrive
but hopefully better.

Thesaurus - Calmness

Webster's Dictionary - A habit of mind that is rarely disturbed under great strain.
Control of mental or emotional agitation by an effort of
will or matter of habit.
Maintaining composure - great calmness or steadiness
under pressure.

So trying not to overly react to life happenings of
Disappointment, blame, success, failure, praise, pleasure, pain, fame or disgrace.

As I look back over my past and life as it is today
I realize that I respond to some of these happenings well
and others truly fail.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Callie
I have had you as my constant companion
now for 3 years.
You rarely bark unless a stranger approaches our cottage.
When arriving home from errands the horn in the vehicle sounds
as I travel down the long gravel drive and you come running
to meet me and I do not believe anyone has ever been greeted so joyously.
I have been missed....

When family arrives you are so happy and practically leap in the air.

Constantly looking at me wagging your tail.
Mistress wondering what are you telling me.
At times you want outside, inside or a treat.
But most of the time I do not know what you are saying to me :)

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Happy birthday to a special daughter.
The second child born to a young mother.
Born on a Monday at 10:23 AM
at the Osteopathic Hospital in Trenton, Michigan.
A move to this area and this hospital was unknown to me.
Her sister 17 months older then her was born in Michigan also
but at a big hospital in Detroit, Michigan.

It was wonderful to move back to my birthplace of Tennesee
when Beth was a baby.....

She was the little one that was constantly
smiling and would many times find something amusing
when we were together -she made her mom laugh like
no other child could do.

She is my horse girl.
Her father loved horses.
To this day she has a special relationship with him.

When I lived at the old farm house
I kept having thoughts of her being a veterinarian.
She loved animals and for years I was called
when anyone needed a home for their dog or kitten.
Everyone seemed to think since I lived in the country
that I had room for homeless animals.

Friday, November 2, 2012

Up in the middle of the night eating yogurt and doing something I vow not to do.
I turn on computer.....

I checked emails and read something that spoke to me. My world at this time is a simple world but busy and I never seem to catch up. A world brought about by my actions and decisions. I like my world
but miss more interaction with my children and grandchildren. A day does not go by that the same thoughts arise of more visits and travel on my part. A lot of thoughts that I just do not put it into action. It may be
a part of growing older, content here by the woods and sometimes a health issue arises - but there are many I know who are always on the go and seem to enjoy this more then being at home.

Contentment is a gift to me at this time of life. A special gift as contentment was not a part of my life for many years......

Everyone in my family is so busy in their world and I was once like this. I like this life by the woods and live with the consequences it has created.

~~~Nothing happens without a cause. Things are the way they are not because of chance but because people have acted in particular ways and generated particular consequences.
The world we inhabit is the product of our actions, which are the reflections of our minds~~~

About Me

This Journal is being written for my pleasure, my children and my grandchildren. Sharing some of my past, present and thoughts for future. It is the Journal of a sensitive soul who has entered her 8th decade. My life journey has taken me down a lot of roads with many twists and turns. It's not the journey that I would have visualized at the age of 25 when a third child was on the horizon. I love the warmth of the sun, sound of rain, a crackling fire, simplicity and elegance. Find pleasure in sitting on my porch with tea in a china cup and digging in the earth. I am more myself at this time of life than ever before. A considerable part of my past was in the business world, multi tasking and being super organized. Today I am trying to simplify and be more mindful. Also learning about this journey through aging and Sjogren's Syndrome.
It is not as easy as I thought, even though I have a lot of solitude at this time of life. My days fly by and I do not think I have enough time left on earth to do and experience all that is the desire of my heart.
One thing I am sure of is that I could not make it on this journey without my daily prayer and meditating time.